Recreation facilities in the Bear Trap Canyon along the Madison River are still closed. This goes for the areas floaters usually use enter the Madison River. The area isn't expected to be opened until after July 9th for floaters and anglers. All BLM land access to the Madison River is closed within the Lower Madison River Special Recreation Management Area.

The firefighters are working hard to protect the Cold Springs ranch buildings. Thursday night a patrol of firefighters made sure the flames did not reach the buildings.

Closures: Norris Road (MT Hwy 84) is currently open from Blacks Ford to Norris. Restrictions on Madison River Road are lifted and travel is allowed. Recreation facilities in the Bear Trap Canyon corridor along the Madison River remain closed. Firefighting resources are working hard to make the Madison River corridor safe for public use. Floaters and anglers are urged to make plans to use other areas through July 9. Access to the Madison River is closed on all BLM land within the Lower Madison River Special Recreation Management Area.

Current Status: Most of the activity was on the southwestern side of the fire Thursday. Additional resources and lighter winds enabled firefighters and heavy equipment to build line and conduct burnout operations with support from helicopters. Additional work was completed around the Cold Springs ranch buildings. A night shift of fire fighters patrolled Thursday night securing the burnout operation and protecting structures.

One lane traffic with pilot cars for a short stretch on Highway 84 may be needed throughout Friday when fire crews and Northwestern Energy crews are working close to the Highway.

Planned Actions: On Friday, firefighters will strengthen completed line and continue building line where needed. Where line is secure, firefighters will continue to mop up, patrol and monitor the fire. Some additional burnout may be needed in places. One lane traffic with pilot cars for a short stretch on Highway 84 may be needed throughout Friday when fire crews and Northwestern Energy crews are working close to the Highway.

Northwestern Energy continues to repair and replace power poles damaged in the fire. 3 structures confirmed lost, evacuation warnings are in effect for Blacks Ford south to Norris, within Madison County. Gallatin County pre-evacuation notifications are in effect for Blacks Ford north into Gallatin County. No injuries reported.